April 8, International Romani Day

Do you know what happens on April 8? It’s more than just marking the calendar.

It’s the Day of the Romani People. But for us, here at Tablao 1911—where flamenco has resonated within these walls for over a century—it’s… different. It’s like a powerful, necessary reminder. Because, let’s be honest: this art that runs through our veins, the authentic flamenco we strive to preserve every night, simply wouldn’t exist without the soul, the grit, and the profound mark of Romani culture.

Why specifically April 8? A little bit of history…

It so happens that on that day, a few decades ago (in 1971, to be exact), something important occurred in London: the First World Romani Congress.

There, they agreed on such fundamental things as their flag (yes, that blue and green one with the red wheel, symbolizing the sky, the fields, and an endless path) and even their anthem, “Gelem, Gelem,” which, if you listen to it… will give you goosebumps.

That’s why the Day of the Romani People is a day of pride, a day to say “we’re here,” to remember an incredible history of resistance, and to keep fighting for the respect every culture deserves.

Official image for April 8, International Romani Day. Source: Fundación Secretariado Gitano – www.gitanos.org/8deabril

The Impossible Knot to Untie: Flamenco and Gitano Culture

Trying to explain the origin of flamenco without mentioning the Romani people is like trying to tell a story while skipping the main chapter. Yes, flamenco drew from many sources, but Romani culture gave it… that spark. That something different.

Where can you feel it? Oh, in so many things!

• In the compás: Those flamenco rhythms that grab you, that force you to move—at least on the inside… many carry that unmistakable Romani stamp.

• In the famous duende: You know that emotion that sometimes tears you up inside when you watch someone dance or hear someone sing? That mix of sorrow, joy, life… it often comes from that very unique way Romani culture has of feeling and expressing. Pure truth.

• In the palos that are pillars: Soleá, Siguiriya, Bulerías… so many essential styles of traditional flamenco wouldn’t be the same without the art and heart that generations of Romani artists have poured into them.

Truly understanding flamenco means valuing Romani culture. There’s no other way around it.

Why experience the Day of the Romani People at Tablao Flamenco 1911?

Our intention at Tablao 1911 is for this respect, this connection to our roots, to always be felt here. We’ve been doing this for over 100 years, and our commitment is to the kind of traditional flamenco in Madrid that rings true, that carries history within it.

How do we achieve that? By bringing in artists who truly feel it, who understand this legacy. We want you, when you sit here, to sense the weight and the beauty of that shared story. For flamenco to genuinely move you.

The Día Internacional del Pueblo Gitano (International Romani Day) gives us the perfect excuse to talk about this. To remember and celebrate. But flamenco, with all its depth of history and Romani emotion, is lived every day. And we, at Tablao 1911, want to remain a small temple for that feeling.

And this 8 de abril, as part of the International Romani Day, we have a very special guest: José Escarpín, recognized with the World Guinness Record de taconeo. But beyond the record, what he brings to the stage is strength, duende, and absolute respect for flamenco’s Romani roots. Watching him dance is seeing pure passion in motion.

A Day to Reflect, an Art to Feel. Interested?

Come to Tablao 1911 and enjoy this art from a people who have so much to share. We’ll be waiting for you!